The Rugby Football Union has taken the controversial decision to change the name of the home of English rugby after signing a naming rights deal with Allianz.

From September, the venue currently known as Twickenham Stadium will be renamed the Allianz Stadium.

By agreeing a lucrative financial deal with the world’s leading insurance company, England joins rivals Wales, Ireland and Scotland, all of whom have partnered with sponsors to name their home grounds.

However, the RFU’s decision to remove the word Twickenham from the new stadium name has caused immediate outrage in some quarters as it is synonymous with English rugby.

RFU Chief Executive Bill Sweeney said: ‘We are delighted to be expanding our partnership with Allianz, enabling us to invest further in the community and the professional game.

Rugby Football Union takes controversial decision to change Twickenham’s name

‘This is an opportunity to celebrate the proud heritage of our stadium while also preparing it for the future. This partnership will support us in moving the game in a direction that serves all rugby, from minis to elites, from club coaches to national coaches and everything in between.

‘The RFU and Allianz will be working together over the coming years to enhance visitors’ experiences and deliver the best possible matchday and event experience for fans and the local community.

‘As we move towards hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025, it is only fitting that the first match to be played at the newly named Allianz Stadium will be between the Red Roses and New Zealand on 14 September.’

The venue currently known as Twickenham Stadium will be renamed the Allianz Stadium

Allianz has been a long-term partner of the RFU for the past four years and with their new investment in the governing body of English rugby, they will launch a new fund to benefit the sport at its grassroots level.

This also comes at a time when all of rugby’s major unions are experiencing financial difficulties.